Huntsman quits and endorses Romney

Jon Huntsman, the former ambassador to China who tried to avoid partisan attacks during a presidential campaign that never connected with Republican primary voters, is to withdraw from the race for the nomination, campaign officials said.

Republican presidential nomination candidate Jon Huntsman was routinely at the bottom of national polls (AP/Matt Rourke)

Jon Huntsman, the former ambassador to China who tried to avoid partisan attacks during a presidential campaign that never connected with Republican primary voters, is to withdraw from the race for the nomination, campaign officials said.

Mr Huntsman will endorse front-runner Mitt Romney at an event in South Carolina, where the next primary will be held, the officials said.